(March 11, 1922 – June 11, 2011)
Early life and career
Born in Chicago, Illinois, Alter studied piano with Teddy Wilson, from the Benny Goodman Quartet.[2] Alter became a talented musician. Later on, Alter would put his talent to use composing the 1969 theme for To Tell the Truth.Television work
His first job as a game show director was on the original CBS version of Beat the Clock in 1950. He then began a long association with Mark Goodson-Bill Todman Productions, where he worked on many of their shows including What's My Line?, I've Got A Secret and To Tell The Truth. Alter directed the original version of Family Feud which ran on ABC from 1976 to 1985. When Family Feud was revived in 1988, Alter directed on that version as well until October 1990, when Alter left the show to direct the revival of To Tell the Truth. Another show for which he directed both versions was The Price Is Right. He first worked on the original incarnation in New York starring Bill Cullen that ran from 1956 to 1965. In 1986 he became director of the current version of the show, replacing original director Marc Breslow. Alter was relieved of his position as director of The Price Is Right in 2000 by Pearson Television due to an unfavorable deposition against host Bob Barker.[3] Bart Eskander replaced Alter as director of The Price Is Right, though Alter briefly regained his position as part of a special agreement with Pearson.He retired following his departure from The Price Is Right. On E! True Hollywood Story episode on Family Feud, Alter's gave some insight on popular game show hosts saying: "Dawson became more of the boss. That happens to any M.C. who becomes popular, he can call the shots".[4]
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